How many times have you come across people with expensive bits equipment but a poor or cheap bag to carry it all in? There can be no justification in spending lots of hard-earned cash on the latest gadgets only to put them at risk when storing or transporting them all.

It is true that a variety of bags, holdalls and rucksacks are freely available and cheap. But do they do the job and are they sufficient for your needs? You need to consider getting one that is specially made for the task.

Custom bags and other storage items are not cheap. So what makes a bag worth spending lots of hard-earned cash on?

A good bag / holdall / rucksack will have the following features:

- sufficient padding to discourage damage from external knocks

- internal compartments and padding to prevent equipment damage

- zips, ties and catches to maintain security whilst on the move

- waterproof and windproof outer skins and zips

- comfortable carring straps / handles

- ergonomic design to minimise fatigue

- quality of product to give confidence and protection

- a range of product choices to complement your own equipment

- enough appropriate nooks and crannies to store your gear

Don't skimp on you purchase - make sure you and your equipment are protected.

Eric Hartwell runs the photography resource site http://www.theshutter.co.uk and the associated discussion forums as well as the regular weblog at http://thephotographysite.blogspot.com